Want to discover the best things to do in Taormina, Sicily? Keep reading!
Taormina is popular for its dramatic cliffside setting above the Ionian coast, rich layers of Greek and Roman history, and a lively atmosphere that blends culture, views, and everyday Sicilian life in one place. It is also known for its proximity to the very iconic Mt. Etna. Its lively atmosphere makes it one of Italy’s most popular destinations.
Stay with us as we take you through the top attractions and best activities in Taormina, Sicily.
• READ ALSO: 16 Best Places To Visit in Sicily, Italy
12 Best Things To Do in Taormina, Sicily
Are you planning to visit this stunning Sicilian town? Here’s your guide to the best things to do in Taormina, Italy.
1. Soak Up the Atmosphere at Piazza IX Aprile
Piazza IX Aprile is a nice open square often called the town’s “living room.” It has black-and-white tiles, the Chiesa di San Giuseppe, and a terrace with beautiful views of the sea and Mount Etna.You can sit, relax, and enjoy the view while watching street musicians, cafés, and small shops around the square.
2. Experience Taormina’s iconic Ancient Theatre
The Teatro Antico di Taormina is Taormina’s most famous landmark. Built in the 3rd century BC, this ancient theater is still well preserved, with stone seats, arches, and stage ruins you can walk through.
Aside from the views of Mount Etna and the sea, you can explore the space at your own pace. Climb the steps, wander the corridors, and imagine how shows were held here long ago.
It’s also still used today for concerts and events, especially during the Taormina Film Festival, so it still feels alive, not just historic.
3. Stroll along Corso Umberto
Corso Umberto is the lively, pedestrian-only heart of Taormina, perfect for a relaxed walk between Porta Messina and Porta Catania. Along the way, you’ll pass charming cafés, boutique shops, gelaterias, and beautiful historic buildings that give the street its character.
It’s the kind of place where you can slow down, window shop, stop for a coffee or gelato, and simply enjoy the atmosphere. Street performers often add to the vibe, making every stroll feel a little different.
4. Take a break at Villa Comunale (Public Gardens)
Villa Comunale is a peaceful botanical garden filled with exotic plants, shaded paths, and Victorian-style follies, offering a quiet escape from the busy streets of Taormina. From here, you can enjoy wide views over Naxos Bay, the valley, the sea, and even Mount Etna in the distance.
As you wander, you’ll find interesting details like sculptures, historic monuments, and memorials, including tributes to local soldiers from the World Wars. There are also interesting wartime artifacts and decorative features that add to the garden’s charm.
It’s a calm, scenic spot where history and nature come together, making it a perfect place to slow down and take in the view.
5. Walk up to Castello di Taormina
Castello di Taormina sits high on Monte Tauro and can be reached by a scenic stairway from the Madonna della Rocca chapel.
The climb is steady but manageable; just take your time and enjoy the journey. Don’t forget water and your camera, because every stop along the way gives you something worth capturing.
At the top, you’re rewarded with sweeping views over Taormina, the coastline, and Mt. Etna. On some days, you might even get the chance to step inside parts of the castle and explore its ancient tower.
6. Step inside the Chiesa Madonna della Rocca
Finished enjoying the views from the castle? Step inside the Chiesa Madonna della Rocca just below it!
This small 12th-century chapel is carved directly into the rock on a cliff above Taormina. Known as the “church in the rock,” its walls and ceiling are part of the natural cliff, giving it a simple but striking atmosphere.
7. Discover the Odeon
Tucked behind the Chiesa di Santa Caterina, the Odeon is a small Roman theatre that many visitors easily miss. It’s a quiet, lesser-known site filled with history. Best of all, it’s free to visit and sits right in the center of town, making it an easy stop while exploring Taormina on foot.
Unlike the larger Ancient Theatre, this one feels more peaceful and intimate. The worn brickwork and curved stone seating still hint at the performances that once took place here. It’s a lovely place to pause and enjoy another layer of Taormina’s ancient history.
8. Visit the historic Palazzo Corvaja
Palazzo Corvaja is a striking 14th-century medieval palace in Taormina, showcasing a unique mix of Arabic, Norman, and Gothic architecture.
Once home to the noble Corvaja family, one of the oldest in the town, it also holds an important place in history, as the first Sicilian Parliament met here in 1411.
The palazzo is free to visit; just register your name at the reception. Step inside to explore its historic rooms and enjoy a charming little courtyard garden. A quick stop, but full of character and history!
9. Ride the cable car to Mazzarò Bay
A quick cable car ride from Taormina takes you straight down to beautiful Mazzarò Bay. In just five minutes, you’ll arrive at a peaceful seaside cove with calm, crystal-clear waters and a relaxed coastal vibe.
It’s the perfect place to try paddleboarding or kayaking, take a refreshing swim, or go snorkeling in the clear sea. You can even rent a boat and cruise over to nearby Isola Bella.
Easy to reach and hard to leave, Mazzarò Bay is one of Taormina’s most inviting seaside escapes.
10. Visit the stunning Isola Bella
Isola Bella, often called the “Pearl of the Ionian Sea,” is a truly enchanting little island and nature reserve just off the coast of Taormina. It’s connected to the mainland by a narrow strip of sand that appears and disappears with the tides, adding to its charm.
Isola Bella is a peaceful slice of paradise nestled in Mazzarò that you won’t want to miss. Here, the crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, and there’s even a small museum on the island if you’d like to explore a bit more history.
11. Binge on local food
Taormina’s cuisine is based on fresh Sicilian cooking with simple, local ingredients.
Seafood is common, including swordfish, tuna, and prawns, often paired with vegetables like aubergines, capers, and pistachios. You’ll also find pasta dishes such as pasta alla Norma, along with pizza and seasonal specials.
For a quick bite, try arancini (fried rice balls) or granita, a cold dessert often served with brioche. Cannoli filled with ricotta are a popular sweet treat.
Dining ranges from small family-run restaurants to more formal spots, many with views over the town and coast.
• RELATED POST: 15 Best Restaurants in Taormina, Sicily
12. Join a Sicilian cooking class
Speaking of food, joining a cooking class in Taormina is a great way to get hands-on with Sicilian flavors. Local chefs show you how to make dishes like cannoli, arancini, pizza, and fresh pasta from scratch.
It’s a simple, enjoyable way to learn traditional recipes – and you get to eat what you make at the end. Check out available classes to see what suits you best.
• Also take a look at hotels in Taormina to make the most of your stay!